Göç İdaresi (Migration Office) in Turkey – Key Facts for Foreigners

Residency permits require its approval post-purchase.

Foreigners buying property in Turkey often apply for a short-term residency permit (typically 1-2 years) through Göç İdaresi. The agency verifies the property’s tapu (title deed) and the buyer’s eligibility before issuing the permit.

Without approval, property ownership alone doesn’t grant legal stay. Renewals also go through Göç İdaresi, requiring updated documents like health insurance and proof of income. Delays or rejections can occur if paperwork is incomplete or rules change.

Present in all 81 provinces, with key hubs in big cities.

Göç İdaresi has branches in every Turkish province, but foreign property owners mostly visit offices in Istanbul, Antalya, Ankara, İzmir, and Bursa. Larger cities often have multiple locations to handle high demand.

Appointments are typically required for in-person services, bookable via the official e-İkamet portal. Some rural areas may have limited services, requiring travel to provincial capitals. Always check the nearest office’s operating hours and language support.

Tapu, passport, photos, and proof of income are mandatory.

For a property-based residency permit, Göç İdaresi requires:

• Original and photocopy of the tapu (title deed) showing ownership.
• Passport with at least 60 days’ validity beyond the permit duration.
• 4 biometric photos (white background, 50x60mm).
• Proof of sufficient income (e.g., bank statements, pension, or rental income).
• Valid health insurance covering Turkey.
• Completed application form from the e-İkamet system.

Additional documents may be requested, such as a notarized translation of the passport or a criminal record certificate.

Yes, common reasons include incomplete paperwork.

Göç İdaresi may reject applications if:

• The tapu isn’t properly registered or lacks the buyer’s name.
• Income proof is insufficient (minimum ~$500/month or equivalent).
• Health insurance doesn’t meet Turkish standards.
• The applicant has overstayed a previous visa or permit.
• Required documents are missing or expired.

Rejections are communicated via the e-İkamet system or email. Applicants can reapply after addressing the issues, but processing times may extend to 90 days.

Typically 30–90 days, but delays can occur.

Processing times at Göç İdaresi vary by location and workload. Standard residency permits take 7 to 30 days from application submission. Istanbul and Antalya region may have longer waits due to high foreigner populations.

Urgent cases (e.g., medical emergencies) can sometimes be expedited with proof. Applicants can track status via the e-İkamet portal. Delays often stem from document verification or system backlogs.

Yes, spouses and children under 18 qualify.

Göç İdaresi allows family residency permits for spouses and dependent children (under 18) of property owners. Each family member must submit a separate application with:

• Proof of relationship (marriage/birth certificate, apostilled and translated).
• The primary applicant’s valid residency permit.
• Individual health insurance and biometric photos.

Family permits are typically valid for the same duration as the primary applicant’s permit. Adult children or parents don’t qualify unless they meet independent residency criteria.

Online portal for residency applications and tracking.

The e-İkamet system is Göç İdaresi’s official online platform for residency permit applications, renewals, and status checks. Foreigners must create an account to:

• Submit initial applications (avoiding in-person queues).
• Upload documents digitally (tapu, passport, etc.).
• Pay fees via credit/debit card.
• Schedule appointments for biometric data submission.

While e-İkamet streamlines the process, final approval still comes from Göç İdaresi’s physical offices. Technical issues or website maintenance can temporarily halt services.